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Travel Stories, Cruise Reviews, and Cultural Adventures


Ephesus Turkey Travel Guide: Why This Ancient City Is a Must-Visit Destination
Step into the ancient world at Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites on earth. From grand Roman streets to the iconic Library of Celsus, discover why visiting Ephesus is an ancient town, a wonder of the world, is thrilling because of its history and beauty.
I've visited five times, and it never loses its magic and sense of wonder.
From the moment you board an air-conditioned motorcoach and leave behind the colorful town of Kusadasi, you're bound for another

Christene Meyers
Jun 10, 20143 min read


Bonnet House is peaceful oasis in the center of bustling Fort Lauderdale
TRANQUIL GARDENS AND ARTFUL HOUSE CHARM VISITORS WITH FEELING OF COUNTRYSIDE Artist Frederic Clay Bartlett designed the unique home...

Christene Meyers
Jun 6, 20143 min read


Fort Lauderdale's Itinerary - myriad charms focus on love of the natural world
AMID CITY LIFE, BUILDINGS AND BUSTLE, FLORIDA'S UNIQUE WILDLIFE THRIVES IN BIRD PARKS, EVERGLADES AND HISTORIC HOUSE

Christene Meyers
Jun 3, 20143 min read


Fort Lauderdale by water taxi - a relaxing way to see the sights, homes, foliage
THE WATER taxis glide by the town's exciting nightlife, outdoor eateries, the famous shops of Las Olas Boulevard, beautiful beaches, yacht clubs and majestic cruise ships traveling in and out of Port Everglades. Nothing worldwide compares to Fort Lauderdale's Intracoastal Waterway. Its lovely canals are so unique and beautiful, they have earned Fort Lauderdale the moniker “Venice of America.” Water Taxi is the best way to see them!

Christene Meyers
May 27, 20144 min read


Crete Greece cemetery history pays homage to horrible WWII conflict
Beyond Crete’s famous beaches and bustling towns lies a quieter, deeply moving side of the island—its serene cemeteries. Tucked among olive groves and overlooking the sea, these peaceful spaces offer a glimpse into local life, memory, and timeless tradition.

Christene Meyers
May 23, 20144 min read
Sexy boobies, the ocean's faithful birdies, fly high, feast, fool around
This booby has his eye on the seas below, looking for a meal. He also eyes the female booby, vying for her graces. This booby is at...

Christene Meyers
May 20, 20143 min read


Cabo San Lucas travel guide -- with wowing rocks, top beaches, glass blowing, shopping and a peaceful mission
Looking for the perfect mix of beaches, adventure, and nightlife? This Cabo San Lucas travel guide covers why this Baja destination is a must-visit from iconic views to unforgettable ocean experiences. And don't miss a side trip to Todos Santos and Hotel California

Cookie & Keller
May 16, 20144 min read


Cartagena calls -- photogenic city delights with old town, street music, flowers, colonial charm
CARTAGENA is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful cities in Americas.
Indeed, it may be one of the world's prettiest cities, with its colorful old town, cobblestone streets, pastel plazas and brilliant clusters of bougainvillea.
Cartagena is a city for romantics, historians, beach lovers and gourmets. It is considered by many one of the America's most beautiful cities.

Cookie & Keller
May 13, 20143 min read


Costa Rica's allure includes howler monkeys, old trees, sky bridges
Costa Rica's allure includes howler monkeys, old trees, sky bridges. This well educated country attracts ex-pats from abroad for its natural wonders.

Cookie & Keller
May 9, 20143 min read


Puerto Vallarta's pleasures: sprinkled with sand, laced with movie lore
FANCY YACHTS sway at anchor in Puerto Vallarta's beautiful marina, while vacationers stroll the harbor's boardwalk, pausing to browse in boutiques, photograph the port's famous boy-sea horse sculpture, or sip a cool drink.

Cookie & Keller
May 6, 20144 min read


Guatemala's colors unfold in pastiche of nature, fabric, cooking
RIGHTLY PROUD of its critters and birds, Guatemala hosts more than 10 per cent of all registered species on planet Earth. Handsome people, gorgeous lakes and forests and extraordinary handicrafts complement swimming, hiking and delightful cuisine -- fish, lobster and tasty spiced veggies -- make it appealing to tourists.
Well heeled Americans and Europeans mix with yuppies from the British Isles and South America to ride horseback, frolic on the beaches, and enjoy spelu

Christene Meyers
May 2, 20143 min read


Panama Canal beset by woes and weather, expansion project is back on track
HOW MANY countries does it take to complete a $5.3 billion expansion of the wondrous Panama Canal?
The answer might be, "more than four," because Spain, Italy, Belgium and Panama have not delivered so far.
The expansion contract was lost to the U.S., whose bid was too high. But the countries sharing the various sub-contracts have found their endeavors beset with problems.

Christene Meyers
Apr 29, 20144 min read


Panama Canal connects the oceans, delights our travelers
Panama Canal Engineering marvel thrills as it raises the ship 85 feet to move it across land, Pacific to Atlantic

Cookie & Keller
Apr 25, 20143 min read


Journey to Jerusalem: Historic city yields wonder, emotion, spectacle
THREE MAJOR WORLD RELIGIONS LIVE MEANINGFUL LIVES IN HISTORIC ISRAELI CITY Cookie takes a moment to meditate and give thanks for her return to a favorite city at the Western Wall, Jerusalem. STORY By CHRISTENE MEYERS The Dome of the Rock , sacred Muslim shrine, circa 685, offers gorgeous mosaics and is an Islamic architectural monument. PHOTOS By BRUCE KELLER NO CITY on the planet makes such an emotional impact on so many people. Jerusalem, the proud capital of Israel,

Christene Meyers
Apr 18, 20144 min read
Oregon creamery follows ancient tradition, delivering creamy cheeses
Contented cows, here near Jacksonville, are a must for good cheese! Blue cheese and red wine -- say ahhh! WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN...

Christene Meyers
Apr 15, 20144 min read
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